More students getting educated on medical cannabis through University's pro-marijuana RSO
From business and political science majors to nubile hippies, students are becoming increasingly interested in the future of medical and recreational marijuana laws.
The frenzy has caused students at Central Michigan University to get involved with the pro-pot registered student organization, Student Advocates for Medical and Recreational Cannabis.
Since its formation in Fall 2013, the RSO has endeavored to educate students on new science surrounding the use of cannabis.
“We try to change the negative stigma that comes along with marijuana, including the many myths involving its side effects, such as it killing brain cells or making you lazy,” said RSO member Lissette Rosado. “It’s exciting to be part of this movement to educate students and bring positive change that is very well needed.”
Rosado, a Perry sophomore, is proud of all the groups accomplishments thus far, including having 50 or more people attend regular meetings.
Expanding its base of followers and its cause, a recent deal between SAMRC and nonprofit medical cannabis organization, My Compassion, aims to merge the two groups' activities in Fall 2014. My Compassion is one of the only medical cannabis organizations in the country that has been granted the nonprofit status by the federal government.
The president of My Compassion, Heidi Parikh, is optimistic at the idea of college students being more informed of and exposed to the truth about cannabis.
“This is very important because we get the opportunity to educate these great young minds, who are our future,” Parikh said. “Together, we can face the biggest challenge of changing the 70-some years of wrong information regarding cannabis.”
Parikh explained that My Compassion’s main mission is to increase the awareness and understanding of the medical benefits of cannabis. She is confident that SAMRC has a similar vision to help further educate a younger generation.
Perry junior Lisa Conine said the merger will be beneficial to students seeking more information, and hopes it will encourage more people to attend meetings.
“Volunteering, internship and career opportunities will open up for students after we merge with My Compassion,” Conine said. “Policy change is always happening, so it is important that we educate and advocate together.”
SAMRC holds meetings every Wednesday at 9 p.m. in room 167 of Anspach Hall.
